Romeo and Juliet – Act 1 (Abridged Version) Free Sample

Not dumbing down Shakespeare — scaffolding it for ESL, SEND, and mixed-ability learners.

This free sample is an abridged version of Romeo and Juliet – Act 1, written to prioritise narrative comprehension over textual fidelity.

The language has been carefully adapted to support:

• ESL / EAL learners
• SEND students
• mixed-ability classrooms
• whole-class inclusive reading

This is not a replacement for Shakespeare’s original text.

It is a linguistically sound adaptation designed to make the story accessible while preserving:

• key characters
• essential plot
• emotional meaning

Archaic vocabulary and non-essential subplots have been deliberately removed to reduce cognitive overload and allow students to focus on understanding the story.

This approach reflects:

• scaffolded access
• ethical inclusion
• intentional, evidence-informed teaching practice

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Simplified narrative retelling of Act 1
• Comprehension, vocabulary, and writing activities
• Tasks suitable for lower–mid secondary students
• Original quotes clearly explained

Ready to download and teach immediately. No planning required.

Ideal as:
a bridge into the original play
a foundation text before reading extracts
an inclusive alternative where the full text is inaccessible

Highly Suitable for:
KS3 / lower secondary
ESL / EAL learners
SEND and mixed-ability classes